We are running some free taster sessions at Belgrave Hall & Gardens, Church Road, Leicester LE4 5PE throughout the summer.

Belgrave at Work and Play, Wednesday 16 May 2018 at 11.00 am – 12.30 pm with Cynthia Brown

What sort of work did people in Belgrave do in the past – and how did they spend their leisure? This illustrated talk will cover framework knitting in Belgrave village, the growth of the British United and other local businesses, the Belgrave Flower Show, balloon ascents and other entertainments.

This taster session will begin with a brief account of the origins and history of the Leicester Navigation, set in the context of the development of Leicestershire’s system of navigable rivers and canals. It will then focus on the navigation as it passes through Belgrave, identifying the changes to the nature of the river itself, and the impact of these changes on the neighbourhood. This account will be supported by maps and documents.

Come along and try your hand at drawing and painting plants and flowers in this beautiful setting. You will be encouraged to develop your observational, drawing and painting skills, to create a simple botanical composition, in this friendly and relaxed taster session’.

Walk around Belgrave Hall’s beautiful gardens with plant expert Sally Cunningham and discover where some of your familiar garden plants came from – the answers may surprise you! Find out the real reasons some of our plants were grown in the past. Also, introducing seed saving techniques.

All taster sessions are free entry, however pre-booking is required. To reserve a place or for more information, please contact the WEA, 101 Hinckley Road, Leicester LE3 0TD, call 0116 2556614 or email 101leicester@wea.org.uk

The WEA would like to take this opportunity to thank Belgrave Hall & Gardens for their help in co-organising the tasters.